What Is UCL and What Can You Find on ucl.ac.uk?

UCL is University College London, a university based in London that describes itself as a world top-ten institution with a community drawn from over 150 countries. Its website, ucl.ac.uk, is the main public entry point for anyone exploring study options, research news, campus events, or student support. It is most useful if you are a prospective undergraduate or graduate student, a current student looking for services, or a visitor wanting to understand what the university does.

Study options listed on the site

The homepage organises study routes into clear sections, each pointing to a fuller catalogue:

If you already know your level of study, start with the matching section rather than searching the whole site. The course counts above are the figures stated on the page and give a sense of scale before you narrow down by subject.

Information for specific audiences

Beyond course lists, the homepage links to pages aimed at particular groups:

• International students — separate information sections exist for both undergraduate and graduate international applicants.
• Parents and guardians — a dedicated information page for those supporting an applicant.
• Access and widening participation — for people exploring routes into higher education who may not follow a standard path.

These pages are worth checking early, because eligibility, fees, and application routes can differ by applicant type. The site does not publish prices on the homepage, so cost details need to be confirmed on the relevant course or admissions page.

Open days and events

The site maintains a list of undergraduate and graduate virtual open events. The stated purpose is to help you learn what a course and studying at UCL would be like. If you are deciding between courses, an open event is a practical way to test your shortlist before applying.

Student support

UCL states that its team of wellbeing, disability and mental health staff provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to discuss issues that may affect your ability to study. For current or incoming students, this is the section to note if you anticipate needing adjustments or support during your studies.

News and research

The homepage carries recent university news, which shows the research side of the institution. Examples from the page include:

• A UCL-led team identifying a new long-clawed dinosaur species from a fossil found on the Isle of Wight.
• A major review of mental health provision in England, chaired by a UCL professor, feeding into Government reform plans.
• A new extinct crocodile species identified by researchers co-led by UCL.

There is also a spotlight section, such as Black History Month activities on campus and beyond, and stories about UCL research in practice, including "super elastic" springs used in a world-first baby surgery.

How to use the site efficiently

1. Decide your study level first — undergraduate, graduate, research, or short course — and open that section.
2. Check audience-specific pages if you are an international applicant, a parent, or exploring access routes.
3. Book or browse an open event to compare courses before applying.
4. Use the news and spotlight sections only if you want context on the university's research and campus culture; they are not needed for applications.

The site is a portal rather than a single application form, so expect to move from the homepage into course and admissions pages for the details that matter to your decision.